What is the best means of emergency concentration. Emergency contraception: modern methods and folk remedies. How to take emergency contraceptives

Contraceptives for emergency contraception were invented specifically for emergency cases. It doesn't matter what happened - whether the condom broke, she forgot to take the pill, or intimacy was undesirable for the woman. One thing is important: if for some reason sex was unprotected, and pregnancy was unwanted, you should think about protective measures right now, in the next three days - before it's too late. 72 hours - this is the period given for the use of pills for emergency contraception. How to use such drugs correctly and what should you know about the mechanism of their action?

Can you get pregnant if a condom breaks?

The answer to this question depends on what day of the cycle the unplanned sexual intercourse happened:

• Intimacy in the first 7 days of the cycle is unlikely to lead to an unwanted pregnancy. During this period, the mucous membrane of the uterus is rejected, and monthly bleeding occurs. The maturation of the follicles has not yet begun, and the spermatozoa live in the genital tract of a woman for no more than 7 days. With a standard 28-day cycle, the risks are minimal. The shorter the total duration of the cycle (21-27 days), the higher the likelihood of conceiving a child during intimacy these days.
• Sex in terms close to ovulation (7-14 days), with a high degree of probability, will lead to the conception of a child. During this period, the maturation of follicles and ovulation occurs. The egg that came out of the ovary has every chance of meeting with the sperm, and fertilization will occur.
• Sexual intercourse in the second phase of the menstrual cycle (14-28 days) does not threaten unwanted conception of a child. The egg cell dies 24 hours after leaving the ovary. After the death of the egg, a corpus luteum is formed. It is impossible to conceive a child during this period.

Does this mean that after unprotected sex in the second phase of the cycle, you can not drink and not worry about a possible pregnancy? Yes, but only if the woman is sure that she has already ovulated, and more than 24 hours have passed since then. Women who use natural methods of contraception (fertility recognition method) probably know the date of ovulation. In other situations, it is quite difficult to catch the moment the egg leaves the ovary. Any failure of the cycle can lead to the fact that ovulation will be postponed indefinitely, and all calculations on the calendar will be incorrect.

When in doubt, it is better to take an emergency contraceptive pill than to have an abortion in case of a confirmed pregnancy.

How often can I take emergency contraceptive pills?

The instructions for preparations for postcoital contraception indicate that such drugs can be taken no more than once a month. Practicing gynecologists point out that such recommendations are incorrect. Emergency contraception is an ambulance in case of emergency, and not a routine method of protection against unwanted pregnancy. Experienced doctors do not advise their patients to get involved in such drugs that cause significant harm to reproductive health.

One gynecologist, when asked "How often can I take postcoital pills?" answered categorically: "Once in a lifetime!". There is some truth in this, because the more often a woman drinks such drugs, the higher the risk of complications in the form of menstrual irregularities.

When should you take emergency contraception?

• Unprotected intercourse, when contraceptives were not used at all.
• Cases of sexual violence where a woman was not able to protect herself from an unwanted pregnancy.
• Situations in which there is reason to believe that the contraceptives used were ineffective.

On the last point, they highlight:

• Missed an appointment more than twice in a row.
• Pass more than 3 hours.
• Delayed administration (the timing depends on the specific drug).
• dropout or .
• Displacement or damage to the diaphragm or cap on the cervix.
• Rip or slip.
• Attempted coitus interruptus, ending with ejaculation in the vagina or on the external genitalia.
• Incomplete dissolution of spermicide before intercourse.
• Incorrect definition of safe days when using natural methods of contraception.

When is it too late?

Emergency contraceptives must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The optimal effect is achieved if the tablet was taken on the first day after intimacy. There is evidence that postcoital contraceptives remain effective for 120 hours, but drug manufacturers do not guarantee the desired result.

To protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy, you need to drink pills strictly according to the instructions.

When can I take the postcoital pill again?

The scheme of application depends on the chosen drug:

• Postinor should be drunk twice. The second tablet should be taken 12 hours after the first.
• Escapelle and Mifepristone are prescribed once. Repeated administration of the drug is not needed.
• The Yuzpe method uses COCs as emergency contraceptives. The first dose is taken 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. The second dose is given 12 hours after the first tablet intake.

As for the interval between repeated use of emergency contraceptives, here the opinion of doctors is unambiguous: the more the better. At least a month should elapse between taking postcoital tablets.

Which emergency contraceptive pill is best?

All postcoital drugs are effective in their own way, if you take them on time and strictly follow the instructions for use. Recently, Postinor has been abandoned in gynecology, giving priority to new drugs - Escapelle and Mifepristone. These drugs need to be taken once, and thus there is no risk of insufficient effect from a forgotten second pill.

All of these drugs have a large number of side effects, so it is rather difficult to single out a safe one among them.

How much do pills cost after unprotected intercourse?

The price of the drug depends on its type and manufacturer:

• The average cost of Postinor and Escapel is 300-500 rubles.
• Preparations based on mifepristone will cost 350-600 rubles.

Can COCs be used for emergency contraception?

Such a scheme was developed in 1977, but it is not very popular. According to the Yuzpe method, you should:

• Drink the first dose of the drug within 72 hours after sexual intercourse.
• Take the second dose 12 hours after the first.

For emergency contraception, 8 tablets of a low-dose COC (containing 30-35 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel) taken in two doses (4 tablets of the drug) are used at once. Such means are suitable: Microgynon, Rigevidon.

Such a scheme is not popular in Russia, as there are more convenient and affordable means.

Do emergency contraceptive pills protect against sexually transmitted infections?

No, these drugs only protect against pregnancy, but do not protect against infections. Pathogenic microorganisms easily penetrate the female genital tract and cause dangerous diseases. The following remedies will help reduce the risk of infection to some extent:

• Hexicon (candles).
• Betadine (candles).
• Miramistin (spray).

Antiseptics should be used in the first hours after unprotected intercourse. These drugs do not provide 100% protection and practically do not protect against the penetration of HIV infection and viral hepatitis.

What happens if you get pregnant while on emergency birth control pills?

Women using mifepristone for postcoital contraception should know: if there is no effect, you need to think about terminating the pregnancy. Against the background of the use of the drug, there is a high risk of congenital malformations in the fetus.

Means based on levonorgestrel (Escapel and Postinor) are contraindicated in pregnancy, however, data on the adverse effects of drugs on the fetus have not been identified.

Can breastfeeding mothers drink emergency contraceptive pills?

According to the instructions, drugs for postcoital use pass into breast milk and are considered unsafe for the baby. Nursing mothers are not allowed to drink such drugs. If there is an urgent need to take a contraceptive, you need to stop breastfeeding:

• for 24 hours for drugs based on levonorgesterl (Escapel, Postinor);
• for 14 days for mifepristone.

Are emergency contraceptive pills abortive?

The answer to this question depends on when the drug was taken:

• In the first phase of the cycle, postcoital contraceptives inhibit ovulation and interfere with the release of the egg. Conception in this case becomes impossible, and there is no talk of an abortive effect.
• In the second phase of the cycle, the tablets prevent the implantation of the ovum into the uterine cavity. In this situation, a miscarriage occurs for up to 7 days. This is considered an abortive effect of the drug.

Important! After the onset of implantation, emergency contraceptive methods are not used.

The effectiveness of drugs used after unprotected intercourse is 85-95%. Despite all the possible disadvantages, such funds are considered the best alternative to abortion. Even if the drug leads to an abortion as a result of a violation of the implantation of the ovum, this will be the best outcome for the woman. In this situation, the abortion will occur at a very early stage and will take place with minimal consequences for reproductive health. On the contrary, termination of pregnancy at a later date (after a delay in menstruation) threatens with serious health problems, including infertility.

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Emergency contraception: what is it and when is it used

Purpose of emergency contraception (EC) consists in protection from pregnancy in "fire cases" after unprotected traditional sex in the first three days. The abuse of medical postcoital remedies causes significant harm to women's health, so they are not intended for regular use.

The essence of the protection of EC drugs is the inhibition of ovulation, and in the case of fertilization of the egg, the impossibility of its fixation and development.

How emergency contraception works

First, on their way, spermatozoa encounter an obstacle in the form of thick cervical mucus located at the cervix. The acid-base balance of the vaginal environment changes in an unfavorable direction. Alkaline pH reduces the activity of seminal fluid.

The main action of EC is to restrain the development and release of the egg by the hormonal components contained in the preparations. If fertilization did happen, then the changed endometrium will not allow the egg to gain a foothold on the inner lining of the uterus.

The intrauterine device, acting as an EC after intercourse without protection from a possible pregnancy, has a toxic, detrimental effect on spermatozoa due to its copper content. During fertilization, the activity of the fallopian tubes increases. The egg is quickly delivered to the uterus and dies there. This is facilitated by non-infectious inflammation, endometrial atrophy.

The use of folk remedies for emergency contraception at home is possible, but gynecologists oppose their use. Lemon, boric acid, potassium permanganate, used as contraceptives, are ineffective and harmful. Douching violates the vaginal microflora, changes the acid-base balance, which is unsafe for the health of the genital organs.

After intercourse without contraception, contact a gynecologist as soon as possible. The doctor will select the drug that is suitable for a particular case.

First, calculate on which day of the cycle sex occurred. If intercourse occurred in the first or last week of the cycle, then emergency contraception is not needed at all, since ovulation does not occur during these periods, which means conception is impossible.

When are emergency contraceptives used?

Consider the cases when resorting to EC:

• vaginal rape;
• traditional sex without the use of contraception;
• loss or removal before the term of the vaginal cap, shift of the diaphragm, rupture of the male or female condom;
• skipping the time of taking two or more contraceptive pills taken in a planned manner, a hormonal injection;
• prolapse of an intrauterine device;
• interrupted sexual intercourse;
• peeling off the patch.

There are various EC agents on the pharmacological market. Depending on the type, they are available in pharmacies both with a prescription and without a prescription. Emergency contraception has been tested for decades and proven to be effective.

Methods of emergency contraception

EC methods include: taking combined oral contraceptives (COCs) according to a certain scheme (Yuzpe method), hormonal pills specially designed for taking after intercourse, installing copper-containing intrauterine devices.

Method 1 - Yuzpe method

The Yuzpe method is used for three days after unprotected sexual intercourse. Combined hormonal preparations containing estradiol and levonorgestrel are taken at intervals of 12 hours.

The shorter the period between unprotected vaginal sex and the use of pills, the higher the effectiveness of contraception.

Ways to use drugs, the most popular in our country:

1. Takes four tablets to choose from - Femoden, Microgynon, Regulon or Rigevidon . Repeated use of the drug in the same dose occurs after 12 hours.
2. Combined oral contraceptives Logest, Novinet, Marsilon are used according to the same scheme, only in this case a single dose is 5 pills.

The dose of active ingredients for one dose of the drug is 1 mg of levonorgestrel, 200 mcg of estradiol.

The maximum effect is achieved with the first use of COCs no later than 12 hours after ejaculation. Effectiveness is noticeably reduced if coitus happened before ovulation.

The Yuzpe method has side reactions, contraindications. To minimize negative consequences, a doctor is consulted for the selection of medication and dosage. If this method of protection does not work and pregnancy occurs, it is better to interrupt it, since there is a high risk of developing an abnormal fetus.

Method 2 - hormonal contraceptives

The modern method of EC is the prevention of conception after unprotected intercourse with the help of specially designed pills. They are divided into containing gestagens, antiprogestins.

Gestagens

Progestogen analogues, in turn, are divided into synthetic levonorgestrel and norethisterone, which are similar in their action to natural progesterone. These substances actively inhibit the maturation and release of the egg from the ovary, thereby preventing pregnancy.

A common drug of this type is Postinor , containing two tablets, which are taken one at a time at intervals of 12 hours. The effectiveness leaves 90% when used in the first 24 hours after intercourse. Drunk pills after 3 days reduce the effectiveness of up to 55%.

Postinor has side effects, expressed in nausea, impaired intestinal motility, pain in the head, lower abdomen, blood discharge.

A more modern drug containing twice as much levonorgestrel - Escapelle . It is taken once within three days after unprotected sex. The side effects are the same.

Proved their effectiveness: Nordiol, Neogest, Microval, taken in the same way as Postinor.

Artificial antiprogestin

Mifepristone It is known as a short-term abortifacient and as a drug for emergency contraception in the presence of contraindications to other methods of protection against pregnancy.

Antigestagens act throughout the cycle. If sexual intercourse occurred before the maturation and release of the egg, then the substance mifepristone suppresses ovulation, if after that it does not allow the endometrium to increase in volume, to fix the egg on the wall of the uterus.

The drug is used at a dose of 600 mg once.

Headache, tension of the mammary glands, nausea, vomiting pass quickly after application. A more distant side effect is the failure of menstruation after emergency contraception. To restore the menstrual cycle, a planned intake of hormonal drugs after the first menstruation is recommended.

Best among emergency contraceptives containing mifepristone are considered Genale, Ginepriston . These tablets are available from pharmacies by prescription.

Ginepriston delays the maturation and release of the egg, atrophies the endometrium. One tablet is taken once on an empty stomach. In addition to the negative consequences inherent in all medical emergency contraceptives, allergic reactions may occur.

Jenale - an antiprogestogenic agent containing 1 tablet in a package, slows down the process of ovulation, changes the endometrium. Taking a contraceptive can provoke an exacerbation of the inflammatory processes of the reproductive organs.

Both drugs are effective for three days after ejaculation.

If we compare the safety and efficacy of hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptives, then both indicators are higher for preparations containing mifepristone 10 mg.

In women who used drugs with levonorgestrel 1.5 mg, the consequences are more severe - one and a half times more cases of uterine bleeding, menstrual irregularities, and twice the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Method 3 - intrauterine device

Safe emergency contraception is intrauterine device . A foreign body made of plastic and copper, placed in the uterine cavity, causes non-infectious inflammation, leading to the death of sperm and egg. The spiral acts as a "fire" means if installed 5 days after unprotected intercourse.

At first, pulling pains in the lower abdomen are felt. Menses become profuse and painful.

Three weeks later, they pay a visit to the doctor, who examines the patient for pregnancy, checks the correctness of the formulation of the remedy. If in the future you are going to use other contraceptives in a planned manner, then the spiral is removed.

More often it is left as a long-term protection against unwanted pregnancy.

Installation, removal of an intrauterine contraceptive takes place in a gynecological room.

Emergency contraception does not reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. If unprotected intercourse occurred with a one-time partner, then it is necessary to exclude sexually transmitted diseases by passing the appropriate tests in a medical institution.

When and how to take emergency contraceptives

To benefit from the use of emergency contraception follow simple rules:

• Before purchasing an emergency contraceptive, consult a gynecologist;
• study the instructions for use;
• COCs, Postinor are used twice with an interval of 12 hours in the first three days after ejaculation;
• Escapelle and mifepristone tablets are taken once in the first 72 hours after unprotected intercourse;
• tablets taken in the first 12 hours after the act are more effective;
• it is important to use Ginepristone, Genale on an empty stomach and after taking it, do not eat for at least 2 hours;
• with vomiting after using an oral contraceptive in the first 2-3 hours, the pill is duplicated.

Consequences of taking emergency contraceptives

For side effects body for emergency contraception include:

• abdominal pain, migraine;
• dizziness, general weakness;
• nausea, rarely vomiting;
• violation of the chair;
• allergy;
• bloody vaginal discharge;
• tension of the mammary glands;
• delay of the next menstruation.

Untimely onset of menstruation, accompanied by bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen, can be caused by an ectopic pregnancy. This case calls for medical attention.

Consequences of taking drugs:

1. The risk of uterine bleeding increases with repeated use of emergency contraceptives.
2. Vomiting is more common after taking combined oral agents, and this side effect is rare in women using levonorgestrel.
3. Medicines for "fire" protection from unplanned pregnancy are harmful to children who are breastfed. Active substances are able to partially penetrate into breast milk.
4. Emergency contraception takes a toll on the hormonal system. This is especially true in the case of frequent use of EC preparations. The constant suppression of the maturation of the follicle eventually leads to infertility.
5. A decrease in the level of estrogen and testosterone in the female body reduces bone density. Menopause starts early. Against the background of developing osteoporosis, the risk of fractures increases.
6. Changes in ovarian function, hormonal imbalance lead to weight gain, an increase in blood sugar, and an increase in blood pressure.
7. Women with varicose veins are more likely to develop blood clots.
8. An intrauterine device can cause significant harm to women's health. The tool can perforate into the endometrium, cause gynecological diseases.

To prevent irreversible consequences, use long-term remedies, and use emergency contraceptives no more than once every six months.

Contraindications for taking emergency contraceptives

The use of emergency contraceptives is contraindicated in the following diseases and conditions:

• pregnancy, breastfeeding period;
• hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer;
• kidney failure;
• individual intolerance to active substances;
• long-term nicotine dependence;
• thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, hereditary tendency to form blood clots;
• young age due to the possible development of infertility;
• tumors of an oncogenic nature of the endometrium, mammary glands;
• bleeding from the uterus of unknown origin;
• irregular periods;
• blood clotting disorders;
• persistent migraines.

The installation of an intrauterine contraceptive is contraindicated in the presence of:

• changes in the shape of the uterus caused by abnormal development, fibroids, cancer;
• history of ectopic pregnancy;
• inflammation of the endometrium, ovaries.

Emergency contraceptives are high risk drugs. To avoid possible complications, you should follow the dosage, time of admission, be observed by a doctor.

Even with a list of side effects, pills and coils used after unprotected intercourse cause less harm to women's health than abortion.

1. EC may be used while breastfeeding, but take precautions. Before taking the drug, feed the baby, and after it, express and pour out the milk for six hours. This is the minimum period of abstinence from breastfeeding. Optimal - up to one and a half days.
2. If 5 days have passed after unprotected intercourse, then the best means of emergency contraception is an intrauterine device.
3. Possible pregnancy with several sexual intercourses within three days is prevented by a single dose of the drug. Take it after the first unprotected intercourse.
4. Do not use EC more than once every six months.
5. Take the tablets at bedtime with plenty of water to prevent vomiting.
6. Use emergency contraception exactly as directed. Failure to comply with the interval between taking the tablets reduces the effectiveness.
7. If after using the drug the next period is delayed, get a pregnancy test, double-check the result by visiting the doctor. It is possible to fix a fertilized egg in the uterine cavity, since the funds are not 100% effective.
8. Before starting a new cycle, protect yourself with barrier methods of protection.

Emergency contraception does not replace planned contraception.

Consult with a gynecologist who will select the funds in accordance with your health, the number of pregnancies, childbirth, age and physiological characteristics.

This article addresses the issue of emergency contraception. She is also called "fire" or radical. What types and methods exist, how to use them, the pros and cons, as well as cases when it is worth using emergency contraception.

Emergency contraception is used if:

• happened unprotected sexual intercourse, you were not protected at all
• your usual method of contraception Not worked, for example, the condom broke
• You forgot take a birth control pill

Emergency contraceptives are called "fire-fighting" because they are used in exceptional cases. You can draw an analogy with calling an ambulance.

We will talk about two types radical contraception:

• tablet (also known as “Pill the next morning” or the morning after pill)
• intrauterine device

The most important information can be found in tables below. Each item in the table is discussed in more detail below:

What you need to know about emergency contraception

• You need to remember the golden rule: what earlier the pill is drunk, the chance of getting pregnant less.
• The intrauterine device is considered more efficient tablets. According to statistics, less than 1% of women became pregnant after using the spiral. The stats for pills are much worse.
• Side effects phenomena of tablets for emergency contraception: nausea, increased fatigue and excitability, dizziness, pain in the mammary glands and lower abdomen.
• Your menstrual cycle for several months after taking the pills will unstable.
• If within 2nd hours after taking the pill you vomit, you should take another pill, because the effect of the first one may weaken, and the chance of getting pregnant will increase.
• Intrauterine device can be yours regular method of contraception, not just emergency.
• It is worth knowing that frequent use of the intrauterine device will lead to longer, more abundant and painful periods.
• The process of inserting the coil can be slightly painful, so you can take a pain pill.
• Despite the presence of side effects from the use of "fire" contraception, this method is considered more "useful" and more humane for health than any form. abortion.
• If you calculated your "safe" days, and unprotected intercourse occurred on these days, with a small degree of risk, you can not take pills. Since the methods of emergency contraception are a strong blow to the woman's body.

Tablets Postinor, Escapel, Levonel

The composition of these tablets contains an artificial analogue of the hormone progesterone.

When the hormone progesterone is found in natural amounts, it prepares the uterus to accept a fertilized egg, that is, it plays a direct role in the onset of pregnancy.

An increased content of this hormone in a woman's body changes the structure of the uterine mucosa and changes the course of maturation of the follicle. The process of pregnancy is blocked. The hormone interferes with the process ovulation(egg release).

And even if ovulation has occurred, the uterine mucosa changes so much that a fertilized egg cannot attach to its wall.

How to use

Postinor, Escapel, Levonel should be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected intercourse.

That is, for example, if sexual intercourse occurred at 10 pm on May 10, then the pills (Postinor, Escapel, Levonel) must be taken strictly before 12 noon on May 14.

In the case of Escapelle and Levonel, it is enough to take one tablet.

In the case of Postinor, one tablet is taken first, then, after 12 (no later than 16) hours, the second is taken.

Contraindications for use

Preparations Postinor, Escapel, Levonel have practically no contraindications, except for individual intolerance.

We recommend that you visit your doctor before taking any of the above tablets. Your doctor can advise you on which pills are right for you and the recommended dose. These tablets can be used already on 21 day after childbirth and after miscarriages and abortions.

Side effects

There are virtually no medium or long term side effects from taking emergency contraceptive pills.

• Some women feel nausea, fatigue, or vice versa, irritability, headache, pain in the lower abdomen and in the mammary glands.
• In a small percentage, the process of vomiting occurs.

In this case, the effect of the pill may decrease, so it is better to take another one.

• Your menstrual cycle will go astray, but then it will recover again.

All of these side effects usually go away after a few days.

How will it affect your next period?

After taking radical contraceptive pills, menstruation can come either earlier or later than the due date.

Sometimes there may be some bleeding between periods.

Do I need to go to the doctor?

You should go to the doctor if:

• you are more than 7 days late
• your next period is shorter and less heavy than usual
• you are experiencing pain in your lower abdomen
• these could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy (this is very rare but needs to be addressed as soon as possible)
• you are concerned that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease

Is it possible to get pregnant after Postinor, Escapel, Levonel?

Some women still get pregnant, even if they took the pills according to the instructions.

These are quite rare cases. If you decide to leave the child, nothing threatens his health after taking the pills.

Basically, pregnancy occurs if:

• tablets were taken 72 hours after unprotected intercourse
• if vomiting occurs within 2 hours after taking the tablets

There are rough statistics showing that emergency contraceptive pills prevented:

• 95% of pregnancies when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex;
• 85% of pregnancies when taken within 25-48 hours;
• 58% of pregnancies when taken within 49-72 hours

It takes about 2 hours for pills of "fire" contraception to be completely absorbed in a woman's body. Vomiting after 3 hours will not affect the contraceptive effect of the pills.

It is best to see a doctor during the whole process. In this case, the doctor will be able to advise an additional method of contraception.

Emergency contraception along with regular birth control

After taking Postinor, Escapel, Levonel for 12 hours, use your regular contraceptive:

• have a drink contraceptive pill
• vaginal ring
• contraceptive patch

In addition, for several days you need to use an additional contraceptive - a condom:

• during 7 days if you use patch, ring or combined tablets
• during 2 days if your contraceptives pills based on the hormone progesterone

If you are breastfeeding your baby, it is safe to take emergency contraceptive pills.

Tablets ellaOne (ellaOn)

Recently, ellaOne has appeared on the market, which can be taken within 120 hours after unprotected intercourse (that's 5 days).

ellaOne tablets contain Ulipristal Acetate.

The principle of operation of all oral contraceptives is to delay or prevent ovulation, the release of a mature egg, which, when meeting with a sperm cell, will lead to pregnancy.

Who can take

Almost all women can take ellaOne tablets. Among the contraindications:

• asthma
• liver disease
• pregnancy

You should also refrain from breastfeeding for one week.

Side effects

They are the same as with other emergency contraceptive pills.

For a few days after taking the pill, you may feel:

• pain in the lower back or lower abdomen
• more painful periods
• frequent mood swings

Do you need a doctor?

Be sure to see a doctor if:

• there was a delay in menstruation by more than 7 days
• periods are not as heavy as usual
• they are accompanied by pain, which was not there before
• you want to make sure you don't contract a sexually transmitted disease

Can ellaOne not work?

In rare cases, as with other radical contraceptive pills, ellaOne may not work and pregnancy will occur.

In this case, you will need to consult a doctor.

The contraceptive power of ellaOne may be weakened if you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill. Seek immediate medical attention (he may advise you to take another pill, or take by another means emergency contraception).

If you vomit after 3.5 hours or more, the contraceptive property of the pill is fully preserved.

There is a general rule for taking all means: do not pull. The sooner you take the pill, the more likely it is that its contraceptive property will work 100%.

ellaOne and birth control

If you fail to take your regular contraceptives, within 12 hours of taking the ellaOne tablet you should:

• take your regular contraceptive a pill or
• insert vaginal ring
• use contraception plaster

You will definitely need to use an additional contraceptive - a condom:

• within 14 days if you are using the ring, patch, and combined birth control pills
• within 9 days if you are using hormonal birth control

Impact on next periods

They usually arrive on time. But there are times when the cycle goes astray for several days.

Intrauterine (contraceptive) device

This emergency contraceptive can be used for 5 days after unprotected sex or during 5 days after ovulation. The spiral will not allow the egg to be fertilized and settle in the uterus.

It is important to know that after unprotected intercourse, you need to be tested for sexually transmitted diseases because no method will protect you from these diseases.

The intrauterine (contraceptive) device can be used both as a means of contraception and as a regular contraceptive means.

Is it a spiral?

The intrauterine or contraceptive coil is made of plastic and copper and has a T-shape. It is inserted into the vagina.

After unprotected intercourse, it can easily be used as a method of emergency contraception. The main thing is to enter it within 5 days after unprotected sex.

The introduction of the spiral lasts about 15-20 minutes.

Pain may occur during insertion. In this case, ask your doctor to give you pain medication.

Who is the spiral suitable for?

Suitable for almost all women, but there are a number of contraindications.

The contraceptive coil can be used even after miscarriages and abortions.

Before installation, it is better to consult a doctor, perhaps if you have an infection, you need to knock out antibiotics.

Side effects

You may experience discomfort in the lower abdomen (similar to painful periods) for a few days after insertion.

In this case, you need to drink painkillers.

There is a small chance that during 20 days after installation, you will pick up some kind of infection.

The spiral can sometimes move or fall out. In this case, you need to consult a doctor and put it in place.

How will the spiral affect the next period?

Periods may become more profuse and painful, but usually come on time.

How often should you go to the doctor?

After the spiral is installed, it is advisable to go to the doctor through 3-4 weeks, to:

• make sure you are not pregnant
• make sure the coil fits correctly (if you want to continue using the coil as a regular contraceptive)
• remove the coil (if your goal was only emergency contraception)

When is the coil usually removed?

If you use it only as a “fire” contraception, you can take it out during the next period.

How reliable is the coil?

The intrauterine device is one of the most reliable means of both regular and emergency contraception.

IN 99 % case, it protects against unwanted pregnancy.

Periodically feel for the tendrils from the spiral into the vagina. If you don't feel them, chances are that the coil has moved and its contraceptive power has weakened.

You should not feel the spiral in your body. If for any reason you feel it, see your doctor. And use an additional contraceptive, such as a condom, until the problem is sorted out.

The spiral and other methods of contraception

As already mentioned, the intrauterine device - in itself is one of contraceptive methods other than emergency.

If your regular method of contraception is contraceptives pills, after you remove the spiral, you can continue to drink them.

How much will emergency contraception cost you?

Emergency contraception is not cheap.

Postinor, for example, is the cheapest of all means - about 300 rubles.

Escapelle, Levonel cost a little more (about 350 rubles).

ellaOne is already 10 times more expensive ( 3390 rubles), because it is more gentle, modern and can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex.

Intrauterine device can be used as a regular contraceptive, for a long time, so its cost does not fall below 3500 rubles and comes to 7000 rubles.

From the article, you learned about all the methods of emergency (fire, radical) contraception: pills and an intrauterine device. Which remedy is right for you, the doctor will tell you.

Emergency contraception is used to prevent the formation and development of an embryo after unprotected intercourse. Taking contraceptives does not give a 100% guarantee that an unwanted pregnancy will not occur. This method of contraception is allowed to be used only in emergency situations.

Purpose of emergency contraception

The main goal is to prevent the attachment of the fetal egg to the wall of the uterus. This will prevent the development of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse.

Physiologically, under the influence of emergency contraception, the cervical secret thickens, stops the penetration of sperm into the uterus. Another mechanism of action is to suppress ovulation.

Indications for the use of birth control pills:

• lack of planned contraception;
• falling or rupture of the condom, diaphragm, vaginal cap;
• skipping the planned intake of oral contraceptives;
• errors in calculating the "safe days" of the menstrual cycle;
• skipping a long-acting contraceptive injection;
• doubt about the effectiveness of PPA (coitus interruptus);
• perfect violence.

Types of urgent contraceptives

Products with levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel prevents the fertilization of the egg. Under the influence of a synthetic hormone, cervical mucus changes its consistency (becomes thick), prevents viable sperm from entering the egg. In this way, ovulation is delayed. The effectiveness of the tablets depends on the time of taking the recommended dose after unprotected intercourse.

• Name: Postinor.
• How to use: The package contains 2 tablets. The first is supposed to be taken as soon as possible after the PA, the second - 12 hours after the first. The medicine should not be chewed, washed down with plenty of water.
• Contraindications: individual intolerance to the active substances of Postinor, pregnancy, lactation.
• Cost: 350 rubles.

The second drug is no less effective. You only need to take 1 tablet. The drug prevents the introduction of a fertilized egg into the uterine mucosa, prevents conception. Short description:

• Name: Escapelle.
• Method of application: take the tablet inside as soon as possible after an unprotected intercourse, drink plenty of water.
• Contraindications: liver failure, age up to 16 years, intolerance to the components of Escapelle.
• Cost: 400 rubles.

There is another postcoital contraceptive that effectively suppresses ovulation, causes changes in the structure of the endometrium, thereby preventing egg implantation. Short description:

• Name: Eskinor-f.
• Method of application: the first tablet is supposed to be taken no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse. The second drink after 12 hours.
• Contraindications: lactase deficiency, liver failure, age up to 16 years, pregnancy, intolerance to components.
• Cost: 200 rubles.

Combined drugs

These emergency contraceptive pills must be taken within 24 hours of unprotected intercourse (first dose). Repeat oral administration after 12 hours. Effective medicines:

• Name: Regulon.
• Method of application: after unprotected sexual contact, it is supposed to drink 4 tablets, after 12 hours it is required to repeat the dosage.
• Contraindications: diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, dysfunction of the pancreas and liver, thrombosis of arteries and veins, migraine, malignant tumors of the reproductive system.
• Cost: 400 rubles.

The second drug is no less effective, in the chemical composition it contains desogestrel (as a progestin), ethinyl estradiol (as estrogen). Short description:

• Name: Marvelon.
• Method of application: similar to the previous medication.
• Contraindications: thrombosis of large veins and arteries, diabetes mellitus, extensive liver damage, migraine, pregnancy.
• Cost: 1400 rubles.

The third medication is cheaper, but it works just as well as its predecessor:

• Name: Rigevidon.
• Method of application: the first 4 tab. supposed to drink immediately after intercourse, another 4 tablets. – after 12 hours in the absence of side effects.
• Contraindications: pathologies from the cardiovascular system, diabetes mellitus, anemia, tumor diseases, cholecystitis.
• Cost: 250 rubles.

Non-hormonal postcoital contraceptives

This group of emergency contraceptives includes drugs with mifepristone (a progesterone antagonist) as an active ingredient. This synthetic substance reduces the activity of progesterone, inhibits ovulation, changes the structure of the endometrium of the uterus. If the implantation of the egg has occurred, mifepristone increases the contractility of the uterus, as a result of which the fetal egg is rejected.

• Name: Agesta.
• How to use: the tablet is required to drink on an empty stomach, drink a small amount of liquid.
• Contraindications: severe forms of extragenital pathologies, liver or kidney failure, anemia, porphyria, hemostasis, uterine scars.
• Cost: 300 rubles.

The second drug is sold in the amount of 1 tablet is intended for single use. Characteristic:

• Name: Ginepriston.
• Directions for use: Take the tablet after unprotected intercourse.
• Contraindications: disorders in the work of the adrenal cortex, intolerance to the active substances of the drug, liver and kidney failure.
• Cost: 450 rubles.

There are other birth control pills after an unprotected intercourse that are used for elective and emergency contraception. Short description:

• Name: Jenale.
• How to use: you need to drink 1 tablet once on an empty stomach, do not chew, drink a moderate amount of water.
• Contraindications: porphyria, anemia, adrenal hypertrophy, allergy to components, pregnancy, lactation, liver and kidney pathologies.
• Cost: 370 rubles.

Efficacy of emergency contraceptives

According to the instructions, drinking a pill as a measure of emergency contraception is required as soon as possible after sexual intercourse. Such timeliness provides a contraceptive effect by 95%.

If you take birth control pills 24-48 hours after sexual contact, the desired effect is reduced to 85%, after a period of 2-3 days - up to 58%.

Are emergency contraceptive pills safe?

• digestive tract: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting;
• nervous system: weakness, dizziness, headache, migraine;
• others: violation of the menstrual cycle, engorgement of the mammary glands, bloody discharge from the vagina;
• skin: skin rash, urticaria, swelling and burning of the dermis, hyperemia of the epidermis.

Video

Safe sex in our time is not a serious problem - medicine offers a huge number of contraceptives that can protect a couple from both STDs and unwanted pregnancies.

However, in reality, everything looks completely different, and almost every woman has unprotected sex at least once in her life. Should I panic in such a situation? Of course not, because all the same modern medicines will help protect against its unpleasant consequences.

What to do after unprotected intercourse?

"Accidents" during sexual intercourse are different - for example, a condom broke or slipped out, a woman forgot to take contraceptives, or partners in a fit of passion did not think about contraception at all. So, what can a woman do after coitus has already taken place?

• Immediately take a vertical position - under the influence of gravity, the seed will flow out of the vagina without reaching the egg. True, you cannot rely solely on this method, because it is too unreliable.
• Within 10 minutes after the PA, you need to wash yourself well with warm water and soap - this will help reduce the risk of pregnancy by about 10%. In addition, you can douche with some acidic solution (vinegar, lemon juice or citric acid), which will help create an unfavorable environment for sperm in the vagina. True, such solutions should be handled very carefully - there is a risk of severely burning the mucous membrane.
• If a woman takes oral contraceptives and forgot to take another pill, you should read the instructions for the drug - usually it indicates the procedure to be followed in such a situation.
• If sexual intercourse occurred with an unreliable or random partner, you need to treat the genitals as soon as possible with special means that will protect the body from STDs. One of these means is Miramistin, but with this question it is best to contact a venereologist.

The most effective way of postcoital protection is the so-called emergency (fire, emergency, etc.) contraception, which involves taking special medications in turn, which today can be found in almost any pharmacy.

So, what are such drugs, and how do they protect a woman from unwanted pregnancy?

When does a woman need emergency
contraception?

It is very important to note that emergency contraception is not a safe and even less beneficial measure.

That is why it should be used only in cases where the onset of pregnancy will almost certainly lead to its termination: for example, after rape, unprotected PA with an unfamiliar partner, or if during such sexual intercourse a misfire occurred with one of the contraceptives.

In addition, we must not forget that such drugs cannot protect a woman from genital infections, so measures to prevent them will have to be taken additionally.

Types of emergency contraceptives

Today, there are several types of emergency contraceptives at once, each of which has its own characteristics. These include:

• Estrogens. These are the world's first emergency contraceptives, which began to be used in the middle of the last century. They are highly effective but come with many side effects, including nausea, vomiting, blood clots, and more. If, despite taking the drugs, pregnancy still occurred, it was recommended to interrupt it, since they have a strong teratogenic effect on the fetus.
• Gestagens. The action of gestagens is based on the suppression of the secretion of gonadotropic hormones, thereby preventing ovulation. In addition, they prevent the implantation of the egg, but if this process has already begun, these drugs are powerless and cannot lead to an abortion. Taking gestogens (in particular, levonorgestrel, which is a derivative of testosterone) in the first 72 hours after PA reduces the likelihood of fertilization by at least 60%.
• Combined drugs. These drugs, whose action is based on the combined effects of estrogen and progestogen, are the most common emergency contraceptives. Most often, such drugs are taken according to the so-called Yuzpe method, and its effectiveness is about 75%, but 20% of women experience side effects in the form of vomiting, headaches, and menstrual irregularities.
• Antigonadotropins. Means that can suppress the production of gonadotropins by the pituitary gland, due to which ovulation is inhibited, and the endometrium atrophies. If we talk about side effects, then the likelihood of their occurrence is greater than when taking gestagens, but less than when using combined drugs according to the Yuzpe method.
• Antiprogestins. Antiprogestins are drugs whose active ingredient is mifepristone, often used for medical termination of pregnancy. It causes a delay in ovulation or atrophy of the endometrium, due to which the egg is not implanted. Side effects when taking these drugs also occur, but they pass quite quickly; in addition, antiprogestins have virtually no contraindications and are often recommended for women who are prohibited from using other emergency contraceptives.

Contraceptives after unprotected intercourse

• "Postinor". One of the oldest and most effective emergency contraceptives, which has a progestogenic effect, prevents ovulation and fertilization. The first tablet is taken within 48 hours (no later than 72) after unprotected PA, and the second - 12 hours after the first.
• Escapelle. A modern drug based on the hormone levonorgestrel, which is highly effective in the first 72 hours after intercourse. If within three hours after taking the woman had diarrhea or vomiting, the reception will need to be repeated.
• Danazol. One of the most popular antigonadotropins, which is recommended to be taken at 600 mg within 72 hours after intercourse.
• "Plan b". Refers to progestin contraceptives, and also contains levonorgestrel, which prevents ovulation and egg implantation. The first dose should be taken within the first 48 hours, the second after 12.
• "Ogestrel", "Ovral". A feature of these drugs containing progestin and estrogen is that they can cause a strong gag reflex, so you should start taking an antiemetic. The course consists of 4 tablets: the first two are taken in the first 72 hours after the "dangerous" sexual intercourse (not earlier than 2 hours after the antiemetic), and two more - 12 hours after the first.
• "Ginepriston". A steroid antiprogestogen drug that can cause a delay in ovulation and implantation or atrophy of the endometrium (depending on the phase of the cycle). The tablet should be drunk within 72 hours after unprotected PA, and two hours and two hours after ingestion, you must refrain from eating.
• "Preven". Combined contraceptive, the course of which consists of 4 tablets - they must be taken at intervals of 12 hours, and the first should be drunk in the first 72 hours after intercourse.

Why are emergency contraceptives dangerous?

Simply put, the essence of such contraception is that huge doses of hormones affect the female body, creating special conditions under which pregnancy becomes impossible.

That is, such drugs actually provoke a hormonal failure, and no doctor can predict how long it will last.

Ideally, this condition lasts no more than one menstrual cycle, but subsequent menstruation is sometimes violated - in such cases, a woman should immediately consult a doctor.

In conclusion, if all known factors are taken into account, then emergency contraceptives are more preferable than any abortion (medical or surgical), but they can by no means be used as a permanent method to prevent unwanted pregnancy.